An event that’s been a staple in the community for decades has been called off.
The Bundaberg Field Day Society has announced Agrotrend 2023 has been cancelled.
“After a tough three years and the ongoing impact of Covid we are not financially in a position to risk running the event for a fourth year at a loss,” says President Grant Harrison.
“We are not for profit and the ongoing impact of Covid on the local business and agricultural industry is evident.
“Businesses are struggling to run their everyday business due to staff and stock shortages.
“Rising fuel and other costs are making it more expensive for exhibitors to display at the event.”
Agrotrend has been a part of this community, and the signature event for the Rotary Club of Bundaberg, for 45 years.
The Society says this is not a decision that has been taken lightly.
Organisers will use this time to reassess the event, regroup and reinvent ways to ensure that the event is meeting the needs of the agricultural industry.
“If the industry feels that this event is important for our region then we need financial backing to ensure it’s future,” says event manager Ainsley Gatley.
“It is time to engage with industry and there may be a more effective way to deliver an event to cater to the agricultural community.
“Who knows, maybe the community will identify that Agrotrend is an important event and will rally behind us to ensure it’s future.
“Maybe it’s time to close this chapter and look to a different event.”
